📜 Akad nikah · #77
My stepfather raised me, but my biological father is my wali. How do I honour both on the wedding day?
Give your biological father the role set by Islamic law, and give your stepfather the place of honour he deserves. A stepfather is not a wali, but his love is no less valuable. He can be a witness to the contract if he meets the conditions, recite the du'a, or give a short speech at the ceremony. Discuss this arrangement early with both of them so no one is surprised on the day. For example, say to your stepfather: ‘You are the one who raised me. I want you to sit close to me.’ Words like these often mean more than any official role. The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever does not thank people has not thanked Allah” (Sunan Abu Dawud 4811). See a stepfather as wali.
Sources
Sunan Abu Dawud 4811 (sahih)